Psa 35:1-3 | Clarke | STEP | The psalmist, in great straits, prays for his personal safety, ; and for the confusion of his enemies, ; expresses has confidence in God, , ; mentions his kindness to those who had rewarded him evil for his good, ; appeals to God against them, ; prays for those who befriended him; and praises God for his goodness, , . There is nothing in the title worthy of remark. The Psalm is simply attributed to David, and was most probably of his composing; and refers to the time of his persecution by Saui and his courtiers. The Syriac says it was composed when the Idumeans attacked David. The Arabic says it is a prophecy concerning the incarnation, and concerning the things practiced against Jeremiah by the people. Some think that our Lord's sufferings are particularly pointed out here; and Bishop Horsley thinks that apply more literally and exactly to Christ than to any other whomsoever. Verse 1 Plead my cause, O Lord - Literally, Contend, Lord, with then that contend with me. The word is often used in a forensic or law sense.

Psalms 35:1-3

Introduction

The psalmist, in great straits, prays for his personal safety, Psa 35:1-3; and for the confusion of his enemies, Psa 35:4-8; expresses has confidence in God, Psa 35:9, Psa 35:10; mentions his kindness to those who had rewarded him evil for his good, Psa 35:11-16; appeals to God against them, Psa 35:17-26; prays for those who befriended him; and praises God for his goodness, Psa 35:27, Psa 35:28.

There is nothing in the title worthy of remark. The Psalm is simply attributed to David, and was most probably of his composing; and refers to the time of his persecution by Saui and his courtiers. The Syriac says it was composed when the Idumeans attacked David. The Arabic says it is a prophecy concerning the incarnation, and concerning the things practiced against Jeremiah by the people. Some think that our Lord's sufferings are particularly pointed out here; and Bishop Horsley thinks that Psa 35:11-16 apply more literally and exactly to Christ than to any other whomsoever.

Verse 1

Plead my cause, O Lord - Literally, Contend, Lord, with then that contend with me. The word is often used in a forensic or law sense. Verse 2

Take hold of shield and buckler - Let them be discomfited in battle who are striving to destroy my life. It is by the shield and buckler of others, not any of his own that God overthrows the enemies of his people. This is spoken merely after the manner of men. Verse 3

Say unto my soul, I am thy salvation - Give me an assurance that thou wilt defend both body and soul against my adversaries.